Firearms are no longer a male-dominated domain. More and more women are expressing interest in guns for sport, self-defense or simply to exercise their Second Amendment rights. However the firearms market has traditionally catered to men. Many models are too large or heavy for a lot of women to handle comfortably and effectively. 

 

Thankfully, manufacturers are waking up to the calls for more women-friendly handguns. The market now offers various sizes and calibers suitable for women with different needs and preferences. 

 

When selecting a handgun, considerations like size, caliber, ergonomics, accuracy, reliability and cost all come into play. In this article, we draw upon our team's extensive experience from military service, competitive shooting and retail insights, combined with thorough research, to highlight the best handgun options for women across various categories.

 

How We Selected the Best Handguns for Women 

 

Our handgun recommendations stem from rigorous evaluations by a team of experts including backgrounds in military, competitive shooting and gun shop experiences. We combined their real-world experience with extensive research into different models. To make our list, each pistol had to fulfill stringent criteria:

 

Features Practical traits enhancing functionality, safety and ease of use. Ergonomic designs accommodate a wide range of hand sizes.  

 

Ergonomics Grip sizes, control placement and recoil management allow smooth shooting without compromising comfort or control.

 

Accuracy Dependable mechanical precision paired with high-quality sights/optics for flawless shot placement.  

 

Reliability Consistent functioning across various ammunition types with minimal stoppages.

 

Value Quality and features justify cost for impressive overall performance.

 

We have carefully analyzed handguns across categories, assessing their capabilities for defensive use based on available data and industry insights. Only the most well-rounded models in terms of reliability, ergonomics and value under pressure made our elite list.

 

How to Choose the Best Women’s Handgun

 

Selecting your first handgun is an exciting yet daunting process. As a woman, it’s essential you make this decision independently based on your needs and preferences. 

 

Consider your options carefully and avoid feeling steered towards “feminine” guns in pretty colors or small calibers. You pick the pistol, not someone else.

 

When starting out, go hands-on with different models by visiting local ranges offering trials, rentals and intro classes. Trying before buying lets you assess the following aspects:

 

Caliber and Recoil Heavier rounds like .45 ACP recoil more than lighter types like .22 LR and .380 ACP. However bigger bullets also create bigger wound channels. Find your personal sweet spot between comfort and power.

 

Size and Fit Compacts and full-sizes allow better control over snappy micro pistols for beginners. Ignore old myths about women only handling tiny guns. Proper technique tames any pistol. Test different grip sizes ensuring comfortable trigger finger placement without overextension. 

 

Accuracy and Sights Quality sights aid in lining up shots. Adjustable rear sights help zeroing pistols to your vision. Fiber optics and tritium night sights offer fast alignment in low light/darker conditions.

 

Action Types Striker-fired pistols have a consistent trigger pull from first to last shot. Double-action only and double-action/single-action triggers require more technique. Revolvers have longer, heavier trigger pulls that demand strength.

 

Features Consider accessory rails for adding lights and lasers later. Ambidextrous and swappable controls cater to lefties. Look for extended controls if you have smaller hands.

 

While aesthetics understandably matter, avoid fixating on color schemes. Vet each model thoroughly based on shooting comfort, capability, size and caliber. Once the fundamentals feel right, personalize with stylish grips or custom finishes.

 

Take your time, remain hands-on through the process. Determining the best handgun for your needs requires assessment beyond the store shelf.

 

Top Picks for Best Handguns for Women

 

We distilled our list down to 7 of the best handguns for women across concealed carry, home defense and range use scenarios:

 

1. Sig Sauer P365 Rose – Editor’s Pick, Best Concealed Carry Pistol for Women

Specs:

 

• Caliber: 9mm 

• Action: Striker-fired

• Barrel Length: 3.1”

• Overall Length: 6.6”

• Capacity: 12+1

 

Features:

 

• Optics-ready slide

• Double-stack 12+1 9mm capacity  

• Package includes pistol safe, mags, training rounds, loader

 

Pros:

 

• High 12+1 capacity for size 

• Optics ready for red dots

• Great ergonomics fit small hands  

• Comes with accessories 

 

Cons: 

 

• Expensive

• Stiff magazines when new

• Few color options

 

The Sig Sauer P365 Rose takes the wildly popular concealed carry P365 platform and enhances it further for female shooters. Sig collaborated with world champion Lena Miculek to refine the pistol’s ergonomics specifically for women’s hands. 

 

The result is a micro-compact 9mm that disappears under clothing, yet packs an impressive 12+1 rounds into the grip frame. An optics-ready slide lets you mount miniature red dots for faster sight acquisition and threat engagement. This builds on the P365’s crisp, clean-breaking trigger, ensuring accurate shot placement under stress. 

 

By tweaking the grip geometry, Sig aims to ensure proper trigger finger alignment for shooters with smaller hands. The changes don’t alienate those with larger mitts either. The Rose edition also sports attractive color accents and rose gold cerakote finishes that female shooters appreciate. 

 

Where the P365 Rose truly stands out is its all-inclusive package catering to new pistol owners. The bundle contains two 12-round magazines, a magazine loader tool, dummy training rounds, a pistol safe and access to an online community of like-minded women. Lena Miculek also provides exclusive training content through this group.

 

The comprehensive accessories combined with the enhanced ergonomics and concealability makes the Sig P365 an exceptional concealed carry choice for female shooters. While falling on the pricier end, the full-featured bundle ensures you hit the range running with this reliable and shootable micro-compact 9mm.

 

2. Walther PDP F – Best Ergonomics for Women 

Specs:

 

• Caliber: 9mm Luger  

• Action: Semi-Auto

• Barrel Length: 3.5”/4”

• Overall Length: 6.5”/7.3”/7.5”

• Capacity: 15/18 rounds

 

Features: 

 

• Reduced slide force 

• Superb ergonomics

• Crisp trigger 

 

Pros:

 

• Great ergonomics for small hands

• Easy slide manipulation 

• Crisp and consistent trigger

 

Cons: 

 

• Limited accessory options 

• Not compatible with older PDP optics plates

 

Walther is renowned for its ergonomically crafted pistols. Engineers took that expertise further with the PDP F edition. This model specifically targets female shooters seeking a comfortable concealed carry firearm.

 

After extensively measuring thousands of women’s hands, Walther’s R&D team engineered a smaller grip frame. The redesigned geometry places triggers and controls ideally for smaller hands. The frame accommodates a wide range of hand shapes and sizes. Yet there’s ample room for those with larger mitts too.

 

The Walther PDP F retains the standard model’s crisp trigger. Each pull releases cleanly for pinpoint accuracy. Reduced slide weight minimizes racking force. These enhancements combine with the signature Walther ergonomics for all-day carrying comfort. 

 

The gun is known to have a natural grip angle. The pistol points instinctively with an ideal heft balancing portability and shootability. The grip stippling provides a secure hold without feeling overly abrasive. The 9mm chambering also keeps recoil manageable.

 

The Walther PDP F combines advanced ergonomics with adjustments tailored to fit the female form. The result is a concealable, soft-shooting 9mm that feels like an extension of your hand. While pricier than polymer pistols, the PDP F delivers exceptional comfort and accuracy expected from Walther.

 

3. Springfield Armory Hellcat – Best Micro Compact for Women  

Specs:

 

• Caliber: 9mm Luger

• Action: Striker-fired  

• Barrel Length: 3”

• Overall Length: 6”  

• Capacity: 11+1, 13+1

 

Features: 

 

• Aggressive stippling

• Optics-ready 

• High visibility sights

 

Pros:  

 

• 13+1 capacity in micro frame

• Easy-rack slide  

• Aggressive grip texture

 

Cons:

 

• Snappier than larger models

• Limited color options

• Less aftermarket support 

 

The Hellcat enters our list as the highest-capacity micro-compact 9mm handgun. The diminutive Springfield packs up to 13 rounds in a tiny yet shootable grip frame. An optics-ready slide and aggressive grip texturing cater to female shooters who value customization and control. 

 

Despite its micro size, the Hellcat shoots flatter than most tiny pistols thanks to an optimized slide and barrel design. The grip texture helps tame recoil for fast follow-up shots. While snappier than larger handguns, it's easy to control with proper technique.

 

A loaded chamber indicator provides tactile and visual confirmation of a round in the chamber. This handy feature boosts confidence for less experienced shooters. The Hellcat also sports an ambidextrous magazine release and lanyard loop. These traits enhance user-friendliness for left-handed shooters. 

 

The Hellcat’s iron sights set it apart from competitors. They use a high visibility tritium front sight and a Tactical Rack U-Dot rear for easy alignment. Low light shooting remains intuitive thanks to the tritium glow. The sight picture trains quickly on target important for defensive use.

 

Optics lovers can mount miniature red dots on the Hellcat’s pre-cut slide. Compact micro pistols and red dots are a formidable combination. Together they transform the Hellcat into an easy to wield powerhouse ready to take on personal defense roles.

 

While the Hellcat has less aftermarket support than more established options, it saw success from the start. The miniature 9mm strikes an ideal balance of power, shootability and carry ability. It’s a compelling concealed carry choice for female shooters wanting significant capacity without excess bulk.

 

4. Ruger LCR – Best Revolver for Women  

Specs:

 

• Caliber: 22 LR, 357 Mag, 9mm  

• Action: Double-action  

• Barrel Length: 1.9”

• Overall Length: 6.5”

• Capacity: 5-8 rounds

 

Features: 

 

• Lightweight  

• Internal hammer

• Grip peg for customization

 

Pros:  

 

• Very lightweight  

• Easy to conceal

• Simple manual operation

 

Cons:

 

• Lower ammo capacity than semi-autos

• Heavy trigger pull

• Limited accessory options

 

Revolvers get recommended to new shooters for good reason. Their manual operation keeps things simple. The Ruger LCR lightens the wheelgun load further with a super-lightweight frame. The small revolver easily disappears in a purse or waistband.

 

Constructed from aerospace-grade aluminum, it weighs just 17 ounces unloaded. A smooth double-action trigger pull cocks and drops the hammer automatically to fire a round. While the stroke is long, the pull weight feels relatively light. An internal hammer allows snag-free draws from concealment.

 

Despite the diminutive size, the LCR shoots comfortably thanks to an ergonomic grip shape. The checkering helps keep it secure during firing. Ruger also engineered the one-piece grip to dissipate recoil. This helps soak up the punch from magnum rounds. The included Grip Peg system makes it easy to swap grips for better customization.

At just over 1 inch wide and 6 inches long, the Ruger LCR disappears under clothing with ease. The smooth contours won't snag when drawing from concealment. Despite the short sight radius, most users can keep rounds on target past 7 yards with practice. While lacking rails for tactical lights and lasers, crimson trace grip options are available.

 

The LCR suits female shooters nicely for concealed carry duties. While limited to 5 or 6 rounds depending on the caliber, speed loaders and moon clips can mitigate capacity constraints. The simplicity, comfort and potent calibers make this snubnose revolver a fine choice for self defense.

 

5. Smith & Wesson M&P Shield EZ – Best Handgun for Poor Grip Strength 

Specs: 

 

• Caliber: 9mm Luger  

• Action: Striker-fired

• Barrel Length: 3.7”

• Overall Length: 6.7”

• Capacity: 8+1

 

Features:

 

• Easy-rack slide

• Load assist magazine  

 

Pros:  

 

• Easy slide manipulation

• Soft recoil  

• Load assist mags

 

Cons:

 

• Limited accessory options

• Occasional feeding issues 

 

Arthritis and other conditions that affect grip strength make racking pistol slides notoriously difficult. Smith & Wesson tackles this challenge with the aptly named M&P Shield EZ.

 

The engineers optimized the entire pistol for smooth handling of the slide, frame and magazine. Manipulating the slide uses less effort thanks to strategic cutouts that lighten reciprocating mass. Generous rear serrations offer a substantial area for improved grip.

 

The frame sports wider stippling grooves allowing a solid hold. A subtle backstrap bump securely fills the palm. The long, smooth trigger face promotes proper finger placement, which aids accuracy. The curved trigger guard leaves ample room for larger fingers.

 

Each included 8-round magazine has similar frame contours to ensure intuitive insertion even under duress. Subtle curvature differences prevent inserting magazines backwards accidentally.

 

The EZ series also features a unique loaded chamber indicator. A small cutout at the rear of the ejection port reveals a colored marking when a round is chambered. This visual and tactile indicator builds confidence for less experienced shooters.

 

While not a competition race gun, the EZ series prioritizes user-friendliness without sacrificing quality. The design works well for shooters with limited strength and mobility. Mild 9mm recoil and great ergonomics make the Shield EZ easy to control.

 

If you or a loved one are dealing with arthritis or other dexterity-limiting conditions, the EZ warrants strong consideration. Smith & Wesson has tackled real-world manipulation challenges with an ingeniously practical solution.

 

6. CZ 75 P-01 – Best Metal Framed Pistol for Women

Specs:   

 

• Caliber: 9mm Luger

• Action: DA/SA  

• Barrel Length: 3.8” 

• Overall Length: 7.2”

• Capacity: 14+1

 

Features:

 

• Compact size

• Decocker

• Accessory rail

 

Pros:

 

• Highly durable  

• Excellent accuracy

• Easy to conceal 

 

Cons: 

 

• Heavy than polymer handguns

• DA/SA trigger has learning curve

 

The CZ 75 series of all-metal pistols enjoys an almost cult-like following. This popularity stems from their durability, reliability and accuracy. The compact P-01 embodies these virtues in a concealable package.

 

This Cold War-era pistol features an ergonomic grip that promotes a high hold. Stippling on front straps and back straps boosts grip security. A generous beavertail prevents slide bite. An extended trigger guard leaves room for gloved fingers.

 

The manual safety decocks the hammer safely on this DA/SA pistol. The first double action trigger pull cocks and drops the hammer automatically. Subsequent shots use single action with a lighter, crisper pull.

 

While heavier than polymer-framed pistols, the compact CZ easily conceals under clothing. Robust construction withstood brutal abuse testing exceeding 30,000 rounds. It keeps running thanks to simplified components and quality materials.

 

Included metal magazines ensure reliable feeding even as springs weaken over time. They drop free smoothly when released for fast tactical reloads. Extended floor plates and witness holes indicate remaining ammo. Lanyard loops adhere to military doctrine.

 

The DA/SA trigger system takes some technique mastery to shoot well. While the SA pull breaks cleanly, the initial DA stroke travels a long way rearward. Dry fire practice helps immensely before you head to the range.

 

Ambidextrous safety levers, slide releases and magazine releases boost user-friendliness. Cold hammer-forged barrels guarantee exceptional accuracy from the factory. While pricier than other handguns, CZs represent outstanding value given their quality.

 

The P-01’s ruggedness, superior ergonomics and proven reliability make this metal compact a prime choice for concealed carry or home defense.

 

7. Sig Sauer P238 – Best .380 ACP for Women

Specs: 

 

• Caliber: .380 ACP

• Action: SAO 

• Barrel Length: 2.7”

• Overall Length: 5.5” 

• Capacity: 6+1

 

Features:

 

• Lightweight 

• Hammer-fired

• Manual safety  

 

Pros:

 

• Easy to conceal

• Very shootable  

• Aesthetically appealing

 

Cons:  

 

• Low ammo capacity

• Expensive  

• SAO trigger needs practice 

 

The P238 saw Sig Sauer instill everything great about their full-size pistols into a micro-compact .380 ACP package. The miniature Sig measures just 5.5 inches overall, making it ideal for ankle or pocket carry. The lightweight metal construction offers durability that exceeds that of polymer competitors.

 

An external safety, single-action trigger and exposed hammer boost user confidence. The SAO system provides a clean, consistent trigger press every time. This enhances shooting precision through total control over each shot. The smooth stroke and short reset promote accuracy.

 

In the hand, the P238 feels like a quality instrument thanks to its exacting tolerances. The slide racks easily for follow-up shots despite the stiff recoil spring. An extended beavertail prevents hammer bite. Various grip panel options enable customization of the feel.

 

On the range, this little .380 shoots smoothly with minimal perceived recoil despite its light weight. The excellent ergonomics help female shooters control recoil for fast, accurate hits. Loading the single-stack magazines takes effort but extended 8-round options are available.

 

While limited to 6+1 rounds, the P238 isn’t meant as a high-capacity defensive arm. It shines as a convenient backup gun and deep concealment option. The .380 ACP chambering lacks the stopping power of larger calibers but enhances shootability.

 

The P238’s combination of portability, ergonomics and graceful shooting dynamics make this micro Sig a versatile performer. It transitions smoothly across defensive, plinking and concealed carry roles. The quality inspires confidence for personal protection purposes despite the diminutive size.

 

Consider the 9mm chambered P938 if you desire similar ergonomics and handling with more power. But for an exemplary micro .380, the P238 checks all the boxes.

Holster & Carry Options for Women: Dress for Success

 

Women often face more difficulties than men when it comes to concealing handguns due to wardrobe constraints. Choosing the right holster can enable confident and discreet everyday carry, eliminating issues with printing or discomfort. Key factors to consider when selecting a holster include:

 

Security – Ensures the pistol remains securely in place until deliberately drawn and prevents accidental dislodgement.

 

Safety – Fully covers the trigger guard and maintains the correct orientation during movement.

 

Accessibility – Allows for a proper firing grip upon drawing, minimizing fumbling even under stress.

 

Comfort – Provides a comfortable carry position that doesn't poke or chafe while ensuring even weight distribution.

 

Holster options designed for women include inside-the-waistband (IWB) rigs, belly bands, thigh holsters and hybrid systems like the PHLster Enigma.

 

IWB holsters attach to waistbands, holding the firearm snug against the body. They are concealed easily under loose-fitting shirts but require the use of a belt . Belly bands encircle the midsection, holding the firearm with elastic tension, making them suitable for wear with yoga pants and dresses without using a belt to secure the holster.

 

Thigh holsters use straps to wrap around the leg, ideal for carrying full-size firearms and extra magazines discreetly under skirts and dresses. Hybrid holsters like the Enigma employ an external harness to support IWB holsters, allowing for deep concealment with various clothing styles.

 

Evaluate your typical wardrobe and activities to choose the right type of holster that ensures safe, accessible concealment without noticeable printing. Start with basic models to master the essentials of drawing, gripping, sight alignment and accurate shooting under pressure. As you gain proficiency, consider specialized options like corset and bra holsters.

 

Invest in high-quality leather or polymer holsters that feature comprehensive trigger guards and robust retention mechanisms. With the appropriate equipment, you can achieve safe and effective everyday carry, no matter your attire.

 

Safety Essentials

 

Firearms demand strict safety protocols, especially for beginners. Start by enrolling in professional training to learn fundamental pistol handling, shooting principles, range etiquette and cardinal safety rules. Begin with basic courses before considering advanced tactical instruction.

 

Always use high-quality eye and ear protection at the range to prevent injuries. Electronic muffs allow hearing ambient sounds while blocking gunshot noises. Slim sound-amplification models maintain spatial awareness, which is crucial for defensive shooting. Wrap-around impact-rated glasses with adjustable stems suit most face shapes while protecting eyes from debris.

 

Combine hearing and eye defense in a comfortable, low-profile package customized for women. Look for breathable materials, non-slip grips and custom fitting options to ensure proper protection.

 

Dry fire practice develops pistol manipulation skills without ammunition. Ensure the chambers are clear and magazines are removed. Practice drawing, aiming, trigger press, grip and stance. Repeat these drills until actions become second nature. Eliminate any clunky movements before live fire.

 

Once you begin live fire, stick to standard velocity target loads to perfect fundamentals. Resist blasting away ammo in excitement. Slow precision shooting builds skills faster than rapid fire. Focus on proper grip, stance, breath control, sight alignment and smooth trigger presses.

 

Be patient and focus on proper techniques before moving to complex drills. Rushing progress undermines safety. Build solid foundations first and remain disciplined, even regardless of peer pressure on the range. These practices will serve you well during stressful situations later.

Conclusion  

 

This guide just skims the surface of suitable handguns for women. While we restricted our recommendations to 7 picks, many other excellent yet specialized options exist. Revolvers, full metal compacts, target pistols and more fulfill unique needs.

 

We suggest new shooters attend local training classes and pistol courses to get hands-on with multiple models. Finding the best handgun means assessing a variety of options personally before deciding. Consider volunteering at shooting ranges to learn pistol basics from experienced mentors.

 

While intimidating initially, shooting sports open up tremendous enjoyment once you get the hang of it. Be safe, train extensively, find a handgun matching your needs and have fun!

 

FAQs

 

What caliber is best for a beginner female shooter?

 

We recommend starting with a mild-recoiling round like .22 LR or .380 ACP to learn proper shooting fundamentals. However many women successfully begin with compact 9mm pistols. Avoid large calibers like .45 ACP at first.  

 

Are revolvers truly easier to use than semi-automatic pistols?

 

In some ways, yes. However the long and heavy trigger pull on revolvers affects accuracy for beginners. The simplicity of semi-autos along with their higher ammo capacity now makes them suitable options for new shooters.

 

How important are pistol aesthetics for female shooters?  

 

The look and finish of a handgun understandably matter more to some women. However performance, reliability and comfort should still take priority over appearances. Quality pistols now offer various customization options to stand out.

 

What minimum pistol size do experts recommend for women?

 

We suggest avoiding very small pistols like .380 “pocket rockets” initially. Their tiny grips make handling difficult and their snappy recoil hampers accuracy. Compact, mid-size and full-size 9mm pistols are easier to control for beginners.

Should female beginners start with a revolver or semi-automatic pistol?  

 

Modern semi-automatic pistols offer simpler operation, higher ammo capacity, quicker reloads and accessory options compared to revolvers. Starting out on an ergonomic semi-auto 9mm provides room to grow your skills over time.

What pistol maintenance chores can female beginners safely perform themselves?

 

Cleaning and lubricating pistols is non-technical. Follow manufacturer guidelines using quality gun oils and solvents. Leave detailed disassembly and repairs to gunsmiths initially. Consider taking an armorer’s course later to service your handgun properly.

What shooting accessories do experts recommend female beginners invest in?

 

Quality eye and ear protection is mandatory for safety. An introductory training course builds safe handling skills. Start with 50-100 rounds of standard velocity target ammo perfecting your grip, stance, breath control and trigger press. Consider a shot timer for tracking your progress.